Enzyme techniques in blood group serology: the effect of ionic strength

Lowering the ionic strength of the solution in which red blood cells were suspended for blood grouping was shown to increase sensitivity and the incidence of 'false' positive results in various papain techniques. A reduction in ionic strength of the solution in which cells were pre-modified increased the titration scores for 'enzyme-only' anti-c, anti-e, anti-E and anti-D. Suspension of papain pre-modified cells in lower strength solutions for antigen/antibody reactions had the same effect.